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HBCU Football: 4 players who will make an impact in the NFL in 2022

By Dante Pryor

Feb 5, 2022; Mobile, AL, USA; American squad wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. of Tennessee (1) and National Squad cornerback Joshua Williams of Fayetteville State (30) in the first half during the Senior bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 5, 2022; Mobile, AL, USA; American squad wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. of Tennessee (1) and National Squad cornerback Joshua Williams of Fayetteville State (30) in the first half during the Senior bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports /
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FAMU safety Markquese Bell (5) celebrates a sack during the Orange Blossom Classic between Florida A&M University and Jackson State University at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021.Orange Blossom Classic
FAMU safety Markquese Bell (5) celebrates a sack during the Orange Blossom Classic between Florida A&M University and Jackson State University at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021.Orange Blossom Classic /

3. Markquese Bell, S, Florida A&M (UDFA — Cowboys)

One of the biggest surprises of the 2022 NFL Draft was that Florida A&M Rattlers’ safety Markquese Bell went undrafted. There were some scouts that had Bell as a top-100 player in this draft. That logic dictates that the Dallas Cowboys got an absolute steal.

If there is one knock on Bell it is that he has not played a lot of football at the college level. Bell burst on the scene in 2019 garnering All-MEAC honors with 61 tackles, nine pass breakups, and five interceptions. Bell was equally impressive in FAMU’s first season in the SWAC with 95 tackles, two sacks, and an interception.

The Cowboys need a player like Bell on its roster because of the physicality and old-school mentality he brings to the game. His game is reminiscent of Indianapolis Colts safety Bob Sanders with better coverage skills. Bell loves the physical nature of the game; he just wants to hit people.

There might be a situational role for Bell defensively, and he seems like the type who won’t mind paying his dues on special teams. The New Jersey native is the type of player who only needs a jersey and an opportunity.

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